# A Complete Guide to Factory Resetting Your AirPods or AirPods Pro
If you possess AirPods or AirPods Pro, there may arise a situation where you need to perform a factory reset. This could be due to performance problems, connection issues, or when getting them ready for a new user—resetting your AirPods can fix various typical issues. This guide will assist you step by step in resetting your AirPods, AirPods Pro, and even AirPods Max, along with updating the firmware and unlinking them from your Apple account.
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## **Reasons to Factory Reset Your AirPods**
There are numerous motives for resetting your AirPods or AirPods Pro:
– **Issue Resolution**: Challenges such as audio lag, disconnection issues, or charging failures can frequently be fixed through a reset.
– **Preparation for a New User**: If you’re parting ways with your AirPods, a factory reset guarantees that your private information is erased.
– **Starting Fresh**: Occasionally, a reset can aid if your AirPods aren’t functioning as anticipated.
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## **Steps to Factory Reset AirPods or AirPods Pro**
Resetting your AirPods or AirPods Pro is fast and simple. Adhere to the following instructions:
1. **Insert AirPods in the Charging Case**: Place your AirPods inside the charging case and shut the lid.
2. **Wait for 30 Seconds**: Let the AirPods sit in the case for roughly 30 seconds.
3. **Reconnect to Your Device**:
– Open the charging case lid and put the AirPods in your ears.
– Navigate to **Settings > Bluetooth** on your iPhone or iPad.
– If your AirPods show as connected, tap the “More Info” button (ⓘ) beside them, choose **Forget This Device**, and confirm.
– If your AirPods do not show up, continue to the next step.
4. **Begin the Reset**:
– Return the AirPods to the charging case and keep the lid open.
– Press and hold the **setup button** on the rear of the case for about 15 seconds until the status light blinks **amber**, then **white**.
5. **Reconnect Your AirPods**:
– With the lid still open, hold your AirPods close to your iPhone or iPad. Follow the on-screen prompts to reconnect.
### **Important Reminder**:
AirPods are associated with an Apple ID for security reasons. If you’re transferring your AirPods to another individual, confirm that the original owner detaches them from their Apple ID first.
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## **How to Factory Reset AirPods Max**
The AirPods Max, which are Apple’s over-ear headphones, have a slightly altered reset procedure due to their distinctive design. Follow these steps to reset them:
1. **Charge the AirPods Max**: Ensure they have adequate battery by charging them for several minutes.
2. **Reset Instructions**:
– Simultaneously press and hold the **noise control button** and the **Digital Crown**.
– Keep holding until the LED light flashes **amber**.
3. **Full Factory Reset**:
– To complete a total factory reset, hold the same buttons for approximately 15 seconds until the LED flickers **amber**, then **white**.
4. **Reconnect**:
– After the reset, pair your AirPods Max with your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or other devices.
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## **Updating Firmware for AirPods**
At times, updating your AirPods to the latest firmware can correct bugs or enhance performance. Here’s how to verify and update the firmware:
### **Check Firmware Version**:
1. Access **Settings > Bluetooth**.
2. Tap the “ⓘ” button next to your AirPods.
3. Scroll down to see the firmware version.
### **Update Firmware**:
Apple automatically updates AirPods firmware when they’re connected to an iPhone or iPad. To ensure the update takes place:
1. Place your AirPods in their charging case.
2. Connect the case to a power outlet.
3. Keep your AirPods near your iPhone or iPad for at least 30 minutes.
### **Latest Firmware Versions**:
– **AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C and Lightning)**: 7B21
– **AirPods Pro 1**: 6F21
– **AirPods 3**: 6F21
– **AirPods 2**: 6F21
– **AirPods Max**: 7A291 (USB-C) or 6F21 (Lightning)
– **AirPods 1**: 6.8.8
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## **Removing AirPods from Your Apple Account**
If you’re selling or gifting your AirPods, you need to unlink them from your Apple account. Here’s how to do that:
### **Utilizing the Find My App on iPhone or iPad**:
1. Launch the **Find My** app.
